The Center for REALTOR® Technology recently released their 2009 Realtor Technology Report, which analyzed the use of technology in the field of real estate among brokers and sales agents. The survey covers technology’s use for social networking, lead generation, relationship building, and mapping. The results of the survey are interesting, particularly in the realm of social media.

No one needs to tell you that the use of social media is skyrocketing: last year, in the 2008 survey, 67% of respondents claimed they didn’t use social media. This year, the number is down to 16%. And not only are more people using it, but it seems those that are have found it an easy transition–47% of respondents called themselves “comfortable” to “extremely comfortable” using social media.

Because you are reading this blog, the survey puts you slightly ahead of the curve with technology: 42% of respondents participate in blogs for business reasons. If you’re here to find information about Real Estate technology, the survey puts you in company with 26% of respondents.

What other social media do people use for real estate purposes? Facebook stands out as the most popular, with 78% using it for business within the past year. And LinkedIn is up on the list also, with 58% reporting using it. Twitter follows at 39%, and ActiveRain at 35%. 63% find the use of social networking effective on some level for business purposes.

Obviously, like you, we’ve found value in social media. In addition to this realtor blog, we maintain blogs, twitter accounts, and Facebook pages for homebuyers and realtors to keep up to date on our offerings and the state of the market in general. Check out our social media here:

Facebook for Realtors
Facebook for Homebuyers
Twitter for Realtors
Twitter for Homebuyers
Blog for Homebuyers
Flickr
YouTube

Other interesting findings and thoughts from the report:

• Regarding mobile technology, 70% text for business reasons. 42% plan to purchase or upgrade their smartphone in the next year. 55% would like to receive information on real estate productivity and enhancement tools for their mobile device, including MLS information, information suitable for consumers, mortgage apps, and apps that integrate with lockboxes.

• Respondents were evenly spread from 25-66+ years. We wonder how much the results would have changed if the survey was split between a younger demographic and older? Or is everyone of all ages jumping on board with new technology for real estate use?

You can download the entire report here.

Would you like consistent industry updates that matter? Sign up for our e-newsletter.